What inspired the renovation of Cedar Bay Farm’s 170-year-old barn?

The dream began with a vision to transform a historic 170-year-old barn into a rustic wedding venue in Lebanon, Ohio. We wanted to create a space filled with warmth, charm, and history — a place where couples could celebrate love surrounded by timeless beauty and community.

What challenges did you face during the barn renovation process?

Renovating a historic barn was no small feat! We navigated Warren County’s zoning and building codes, worked with engineers and architects, and faced delays and redos along the way. But every challenge taught us patience and reminded us why we started — to create a special place for weddings and celebrations.

How did you bring the 170-year-old barn up to modern building standards?

We collaborated closely with Warren County officials, structural engineers, and architects to ensure the barn met all modern safety and zoning requirements. Reinforcing the structure while preserving its rustic character was a labor of love, resulting in a venue that’s both beautiful and secure.

Why did faith and family play such a big role in Cedar Bay Farm’s renovation?

Our journey was built on faith, perseverance, and family support. When setbacks came, we trusted God’s timing and leaned on the love and help of family and friends. This project became more than a renovation — it became a testimony of faith and community.

When did Cedar Bay Farm officially begin its transformation into a wedding venue?

We purchased the farm on April 7, 2020, and began the renovation shortly after. What started as a dream evolved into a multi-year process filled with excitement, lessons, and gratitude. Now, we’re thrilled to host weddings and events in this restored space.

Where is Cedar Bay Farm located?

Cedar Bay Farm is a rustic barn wedding venue located in Lebanon, Ohio — conveniently situated between Cincinnati and Dayton. It’s the perfect countryside setting for couples seeking a charming and elegant barn wedding experience.

How can couples schedule a tour or visit Cedar Bay Farm?

You can schedule a tour or contact us directly through our website at https://www.cedarbayfarm.com to learn more about hosting your wedding or event here.

How We Transformed a 170-Year-Old Barn into a Rustic Wedding Venue in Lebanon, Ohio

Renovating an old barn is truly a labor of love. When we purchased our farm on April 7, 2020, we imagined it would be ready by early fall — BAHAHAHA! Let’s just say God had other plans.

We’re dreamers and doers, but sometimes our big dreams stretch far beyond our timelines. As I write this, we’re balancing excitement, exhaustion, and a wedding deadline that’s fast approaching. It’s been wild, beautiful, and full of grace.

The Dream That Started It All

From the beginning, we saw something special in this weathered old structure — a place where people could gather, celebrate, and make memories. We dreamed of turning it into a rustic wedding venue in Lebanon, Ohio where couples could say “I do” surrounded by warmth, love, and history.

But first, we had to navigate a maze of permits, approvals, and construction challenges.

Navigating Zoning & Building Codes in Warren County

Our first stop was the Warren County Zoning Office. Walking into a government building full of rules and regulations can feel intimidating, but thankfully, the staff we worked with were wonderful.

Over the course of 19 months, we worked closely with them to ensure our barn renovation met every safety and zoning requirement to become a legitimate event and wedding venue. Bringing a 170-year-old structure up to modern code is no small task — but it’s been worth every step.

Finding the Right Team for the Job

Next came the engineers, architects, and contractors. Our structural engineer confirmed the barn was strong and full of potential — it just needed reinforcement and a little love. Finding an architect familiar with barns was another adventure!

Then came the contractors. Let’s just say, not every story was smooth sailing. We faced delays, redos, and lessons in patience. But through it all, we were reminded that this project was never just about a building — it’s about faith, family, and creating a place for community.

Faith, Family & Perseverance

The waiting, the setbacks, the unknowns — they’ve all stretched us and strengthened us. We’ve had to trust God daily and surrender the details to Him. Through it all, our family and friends have shown up time and again with love, encouragement, and helping hands.

It’s been a true community effort, and we’re beyond grateful.

From Dream to Reality

Now, with the foundation nearly finished and new floors being laid, our dream is taking shape. We’re so close to hosting our very first barn wedding here at Cedar Bay Farm, and we can’t wait to open the doors to this sacred space we’ve been building with our hearts and hands.

If you’ve ever dreamed of a rustic wedding venue near Lebanon or Mason, Ohio, we’d love to welcome you here.

Plan Your Visit to Cedar Bay Farm

If you’re searching for a charming barn wedding venue in Lebanon, Ohio, come see what we’ve built! Cedar Bay Farm blends rustic beauty, modern comfort, and heartfelt hospitality — all set against the peaceful backdrop of the countryside.

📅 Schedule a Tour or Contact Us to learn more about hosting your wedding or event here.

May God bless and keep you,
Ben & Kelly Woodall

Renovating a 170-Year-Old Barn into a Rustic Wedding Venue